Principles

The GLFT believes in the importance of transparent funding processes and will continue to refine and use an objective methodology/proposal evaluation sheet that is aligned with the outcomes identified by the GLFT for assessing and prioritizing access proposals.

In order to maximize benefits delivered through GLFT access funding, the GLFT will not fund access projects unless the following threshold conditions are met:

A viable sport fishery is present,

Physical conditions of a site are appropriate,

There are no other access opportunities nearby,

The site will be maintained and user regulations enforced,

The cost of the project is commensurate with access benefits to be provided, and

The proposed access site meets legal accessibility standards for persons with disabilities.

Other factors that add value or priority to an effort include:

The proposed access site is on Lake Michigan, on a lower tributary of Lake Michigan, or provides tribal access,

Potential for use is high, as in urban locations or recreational destination sites offering multiple forms of water-related recreation,

The incidence of negative impacts on habitat associated with fishing in unimproved locations can be reduced,

Educational messages aligned with the GLFT mission and goals are displayed,

Educational or stewardship-oriented programming aligned with the GLFT mission and goals will be in place,

For land acquisition, growth/development pressure is occurring, and/or

Timing is critical.

The GLFT will work collaboratively with the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) to support applicants seeking MNRTF funding for land acquisition and GLFT funding for the development of access amenities.

The GLFT supports the principles of universal design, defined as the “design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design."